🍽️ Big changes are brewing for Carmarthenshire’s school catering! Facing financial hurdles and high sickness levels, the council is exploring a fresh approach to providing school meals. 🎓
With a budget that’s straying £500,000 off course each year, councillors are eyeing alternatives like starting a local authority trading company that can operate commercially. They’re taking cues from successful models in Flintshire and the Vale of Glamorgan, while also considering options like bringing in external contractors. 💰
Currently, the service is under pressure from mounting staffing costs and slim margins on meals, not to mention the challenges of staff sickness and retention. But don’t worry, they’re committed to ensuring all meals meet Welsh Government standards with a focus on health and locally-sourced produce. 🥦
Expect to hear more about these plans this winter, with changes potentially rolling out by 2027-28. The council is keen to find a model that aligns with its wider school reorganisation efforts and supports students and staff alike. 📅
Stay tuned as Carmarthenshire tackles these challenges with innovative solutions! 🛠️